Dental Implant Removal and Replacement: Can It Be Done?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting, permanent solution for missing teeth. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, implants can last a lifetime. However, in certain situations, dental implant removal may be necessary to protect your oral health. In this comprehensive guide, the experts at RussianDent.com share their insights on when implant removal is required and what to expect during the replacement process.

When Is Dental Implant Removal Necessary?

While dental implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95%, there are instances where removal may be the best course of action. The most common reasons for dental implant removal include:

1. Infection (peri-implantitis): If bacteria accumulate around the implant, causing inflammation and bone loss, removal may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection.
2. Implant failure: If the implant fails to properly fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration), it may become loose or cause pain, requiring removal.
3. Nerve damage: In rare cases, an implant placed too close to a nerve can cause chronic pain or numbness, necessitating removal.
4. Allergic reaction: Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the titanium used in dental implants, leading to implant failure and the need for removal.

The Dental Implant Removal Process

If your dentist determines that implant removal is necessary, the procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Local anesthesia: Your dentist will numb the area around the implant to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
2. Implant removal: Depending on the extent of bone loss and the stability of the implant, your dentist may use special tools to gently loosen and remove the implant. In some cases, a small portion of the surrounding bone may need to be removed to facilitate the process.
3. Bone grafting: If significant bone loss has occurred around the implant, your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure to help regenerate lost bone and prepare the site for a future implant.
4. Healing: After implant removal, the area will need time to heal before a replacement implant can be placed. This process can take several months, during which you may wear a temporary restoration to maintain the appearance and function of your smile.

Replacing a Removed Dental Implant

Once the implant site has healed and any necessary bone grafting has been completed, your dentist can begin the process of replacing the removed implant. This typically involves the following steps:

1. Treatment planning: Your dentist will take impressions and images of your teeth and jawbone to plan the ideal placement of the new implant.
2. Implant placement: A new implant will be surgically placed into the jawbone, following a similar process to your initial implant surgery.
3. Healing and osseointegration: The new implant will require time to fuse with the surrounding bone, a process that can take several months.
4. Final restoration: Once the implant has successfully integrated with the jawbone, your dentist will attach a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture to complete your smile.

Trust the Experts at RussianDent.com

At RussianDent.com, our team of experienced dental professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality care and guidance for all your dental implant needs. If you’re concerned about the health of your dental implants or are experiencing any signs of implant failure, don’t hesitate to contact our office for a consultation.

By entrusting your smile to the experts at RussianDent.com, you can feel confident that you’re receiving the best possible care and advice for your unique dental needs. Our team is committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.